How Much Do Yacht Charter Crew Make Yearly?

Industry reports have it that the average hourly income of a yacht charter crew in the United States is $21.28 an hour. Although in the industry you will find that some yacht charter crew members make as high as $32.45, while others make as low as $10.82.

Howbeit, you will want to note that a good percentage of yacht charter crew wages currently fall between $16.83 to $24.76 across the United States.

Also note that aside from salary, it is normal for crews to be provided with food, uniforms, transportation, as well as other onboard expenses such as laundry, soap, linens, and many more.

Also note that health and dental insurance after a probationary period of 30 – 90 days is common, as well as periodic performance evaluations for pay increases.

Vacation and time off will depend on a vessel’s schedule but there is usually 4 – 6 weeks paid holiday per year and a 5 – 6-day work week unless on charter.

Average Salaries of Yacht Charter Crew in the United States

Truth be told, the exact amount yacht charter crew make in a year will vary depending on their position, the size of the yacht, as well as many other important factors. Nevertheless, below are the average salaries of yacht charter crew in the United States;

Captain

• 70’ to 100’: $84 – $120,000
• 100’ to 130’: $120 – $156,000
• 130’ to 160’: $156 – $192,000
• 160’ to 190’: $192 – $228,000
• 190’ +: $228,000+

First Officer    

• 70’ to 100’: $54 – $66,000
• 100’ to 130’: $66 – $78,000
• 130’ to 160’: $78 – $90,000
• 160’ to 190’: $90 – $95,000
• 190’ +: $102,000+

2^nd Mate/Bosun        

• 70’ to 100’: $48 – $54,000
• 100’ to 130’: $54 – $60,000
• 130’ to 160’: $60 – $66,000
• 160’ to 190’: $66 – $72,000
• 190’ +: $66,000+

Deckhand

• 70’ to 100’: $42 – $48,000
• 100’ to 130’: $48 – $54,000
• 130’ to 160’: $54 – $60,000
• 160’ to 190’: $60 – $66,000
• 190’ +: $60,000+

Chief Engineer

• 70’ to 100’: $72- $84,000
• 100’ to 130’: $84 – $96,000
• 130’ to 160’: $96 – $120,000
• 160’ to 190’: $120 – $144,000
• 190’ +: $144,000+

Assistant Engineer     

• 70’ to 100’: $48 – $60,000
• 100’ to 130’: $60 – $66,000
• 130’ to 160’: $66 – $72,000
• 160’ to 190’: $72 – $84,000
• 190’ +: $84,000+

Culinary Trained Chef

• 70’ to 100’: $60 – $72,000
• 100’ to 130’: $72 – $84,000
• 130’ to 160’: $84 – $96,000
• 160’ to 190’: $96 – $108,000
• 190’ +: $108,000+

Chef/Cook     

• 70’ to 100’: $54 – $60,000
• 100’ to 130’: $60 – $66,000
• 130’ to 160’: $66 – $72,000
• 160’ to 190’: $72 – $84,000
• 190’ +: $84,000+

Chief Steward(ess)/Purser    

• 70’ to 100’: $54 – $60,000
• 100’ to 130’: $60 – $66,000
• 130’ to 160’: $66 – $72,000
• 160’ to 190’: $72 – $84,000
• 190’ +: $84,000+

Steward(ess)  

• 70’ to 100’: $42 – $48,000
• 100’ to 130’: $48 – $54,000
• 130’ to 160’: $54 – $60,000
• 160’ to 190’: $60 – $66,000
• 190’ +: $66,000+

Factors That Determine How Much Yacht Charter Crew Make Yearly

The United States yacht charter industry is renowned as being very dynamic and lucrative, and has for decades attracted persons who want to enjoy a unique career on the open seas.

Note that the yacht charter crew all work to guarantee a seamless and luxurious experience for charter guests. However, you will want to know that their yearly income is dependent on a wide range of factors that include;

1. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Note that the exact role a crew member plays within the yacht will determine how much they make yearly. Captains are most often tasked with the general coordination and operation of the yacht, and this means that they also make higher salaries.

Don’t forget that the hierarchy of responsibilities and skills needed for each position will also factor when determining how much they make in a year.

2. Yacht Size and Class

This simply means that bigger and more luxurious yachts will require a more experienced and skilled crew, and this will also mean better and higher compensation.

In addition, note that the prestige that comes with working on high-end vessels will also mean better and increased salaries as well as more attractive perks.

3. Experience and Qualifications

You would also want to consider the experience and qualifications of the crew members when trying to find out how much they get paid in a year.

Keep in mind that crew members with verifiable maritime experience, as well as specialized qualifications, will earn higher salaries.

Note that captains and crew with advanced certifications in safety, navigation, and hospitality are always in demand and they will also demand premium compensation.

4. Geographical Location

Keep in mind that well-renowned yachting destinations, places like the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, will indeed witness higher demand during peak seasons, and this will give rise to increased salaries for crew members.

Aside from that, also note that local economic conditions as well as the cost of living in some regions will have a say on salary structures.

5. Seasonal Variations

You need to understand that the yachting industry more or less operates on a seasonal basis, and crew salaries can vary depending on seasons.

Keep in mind that peak charter seasons, when demand for yachts is massive, would translate into more salaries and potential for bonuses. In the same way, off-peak seasons will also bring about a reduction in available opportunities and compensation.

6. Negotiation Skills

Keep in mind that experienced crew members who know how to appropriately communicate their skills, experience, and value to intending employers will indeed have more chance at securing better compensation packages.

Don’t also forget that negotiation equally goes beyond just salary but also additional benefits like bonuses, health insurance, and time off.